Jackie van Niekerk Appointed Chair of SA Reit

Jackie van Niekerk, a key figure in the local listed property industry, has officially taken on the role of chair for the South African Real Estate Investment Trust Association (SA Reit), as announced by the organization on Tuesday.

In her capacity as CEO of JSE-listed Reit Attacq Limited, she succeeds Estienne de Klerk, the Group CEO of Growthpoint Properties.

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SA Reit noted that this change in leadership follows the organization’s recent AGM held in Johannesburg on July 20, 2026.

Van Niekerk brings over ten years of industry experience, having been the CEO of Pivotal Property Fund when it was listed on the JSE in 2014 (which was later acquired by Redefine Properties in 2016). Additionally, she has served as the former president of the South African Property Owners Association and chaired the marketing and conference committee at SA Reit.

De Klerk stepped down as chair after successfully guiding the association through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent rebuilding of balance sheets and restoring investor confidence in the listed property sector.

“It has been a privilege to chair the association during a period that profoundly tested the sector and ultimately rewarded its commitment,” remarks De Klerk.

Leadership

“Jackie brings a wealth of industry knowledge, the credibility of her leadership at Attacq, and a strong emphasis on delivering results,” he continues.

“This transition was strategically planned and executed with intent. She takes the chair with a robust foundation and genuine momentum supporting the sector. I have complete confidence in the future of the association under her stewardship,” De Klerk asserts.

“It is a privilege to chair the organization at a time when the sector is approaching a pivotal turning point,” says Van Niekerk.

“I want to thank Estienne for his guidance and the strong groundwork he has laid. I am pleased that his experience and connections will continue to bolster the executive committee because the continuity of institutional knowledge is as crucial as regeneration,” she notes.

“Our primary objective is to position South African Reits as an attractive asset class for both domestic and international investors,” Van Niekerk states.

The leadership transition takes place as South African Reits are reportedly in an exceptionally strong position, according to the association.

“The sector achieved a total return of 38.6% in 2025, following a return of 35.8% in 2024. Its market capitalization has experienced significant growth, with member companies raising over R11.4 billion in new capital through oversubscribed book-builds in 2025.

“Having shifted from a phase of balance sheet recovery to one of growth, renewed corporate activity, and heightened investor confidence, the sector is advancing into its next phase with an association realigned to its goals,” observes SA Reit.

The association highlighted that under De Klerk’s leadership, SA Reit has improved the sector’s transparency standards. It released the 3rd edition of the SA Reit Best Practice Recommendations in May 2026 and has reinforced its advocacy efforts with government, regulators, and investors.

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SA Reit noted that a notable international event occurred in September 2025 with the establishment of the Global Reit Alliance at the European Public Real Estate Association (EPRA) Conference in Stockholm.

This event brought together Reit associations from 24 nations and regions, whose members collectively oversee nearly 98% of the estimated $2 trillion in global Reit market capitalization.

“I am passing on an organization that is stronger, more globally connected, and better equipped to serve its members,” states De Klerk.

“Standing in Stockholm as South Africa joined the Global REIT Alliance confirmed what the statistics already show. Our sector has rightfully earned its place among the foremost REIT markets worldwide.”